How to Get a Long Gun Permit in CT: A Step-by-Step Guide
Are you interested in owning a long gun in the state of Connecticut? To do so, you will need to obtain a permit from the Connecticut State Police. In this article, we will guide you through the process of getting a long gun permit in CT, highlighting the necessary steps, requirements, and timelines.
Eligibility Criteria
Before we dive into the application process, it’s essential to understand the eligibility criteria for obtaining a long gun permit in CT. According to Connecticut state law, you must meet the following criteria:
• Be at least 21 years old
• Be a resident of Connecticut or have a Connecticut address
• Not have been convicted of a felony or have a pending felony charge
• Not have been convicted of a crime involving domestic violence or have a pending domestic violence charge
• Not have a history of mental illness or have been adjudicated mentally incompetent
• Not be subject to a restraining order or have a pending restraining order
• Not be a fugitive from justice
Application Process
To apply for a long gun permit in CT, you will need to submit an application to the Connecticut State Police. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Contents
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Before submitting your application, make sure you have the following documents:
- A valid government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID)
- Proof of residency (utility bill, lease agreement, or property deed)
- Proof of identity (birth certificate, social security card, or passport)
- A letter from a licensed firearms dealer stating the type and serial number of the long gun you wish to purchase
- A completed background check form (Form FD-258, Fingerprint Card)
Step 2: Fill Out the Application
You can obtain the Long Gun Permit Application (Form SP-39) from the Connecticut State Police or download it from their website. Fill out the application carefully, ensuring you provide accurate and complete information. Make sure to sign the application in front of a notary public.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Take the completed application and required documents to a Connecticut State Police Troop or the State Police Firearms Records Bureau. You can also mail the application to the State Police Firearms Records Bureau.
Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
The application fee for a long gun permit in CT is currently $36. You can pay the fee by check or money order made payable to the "State of Connecticut."
Step 5: Wait for the Background Check
After submitting your application, you will need to wait for the background check to be completed. This process typically takes several weeks, but it can take longer depending on the volume of applications.
Step 6: Receive Your Permit
If your application is approved, you will receive your long gun permit in the mail. The permit is valid for 10 years from the date of issuance.
Additional Requirements
In addition to obtaining a long gun permit, you may need to comply with other requirements, such as:
- Mandatory Gun Safety Course: You may be required to complete a gun safety course approved by the Connecticut State Police before purchasing a long gun.
- Storage Requirements: You must store your long gun in a secure location, such as a gun safe or locked cabinet.
- Transfer Requirements: When transferring ownership of a long gun, you must complete a Form 4473 and provide a copy of the transfer to the Connecticut State Police.
Timeline
The timeline for obtaining a long gun permit in CT can vary depending on the volume of applications and the completeness of your application. On average, the process can take:
- 4-6 weeks for the background check to be completed
- 2-4 weeks for the permit to be issued after approval
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I apply for a long gun permit online?: No, you must submit your application in person or by mail to the Connecticut State Police.
- Do I need to take a gun safety course?: Yes, you may be required to complete a gun safety course approved by the Connecticut State Police before purchasing a long gun.
- Can I carry my long gun openly?: No, in Connecticut, you are not allowed to carry a long gun openly unless you have a permit issued by the Connecticut State Police.
Conclusion
Obtaining a long gun permit in CT requires careful planning and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure a smooth and successful application process. Remember to meet the eligibility criteria, gather required documents, and comply with additional requirements to obtain your long gun permit in CT.
